Epidural anesthesia is initiated for a primigravida at 40 weeks gestation who is in active labor. Which assessment has the greatest priority for the practical nurse to monitor during the administration of epidural anesthesia?
Level of pain sensation.
Maternal blood pressure (BP).
Infusion pump and IV site.
Variability of fetal heart rate.
The Correct Answer is B
The greatest priority for the practical nurse to monitor during the administration of epidural anesthesia is maternal blood pressure (BP). Epidural anesthesia can cause maternal hypotension due to vasodilation and decreased venous return, which can result in decreased fetal perfusion and oxygenation. Therefore, it is important for the practical nurse to monitor maternal BP frequently and promptly report any significant changes to the healthcare provider. Options A, C, and D are also important assessments, but they are not the priority in this scenario.
Therefore, options A, C, and D are not answers because they are not the priority assessment during the administration of epidural anesthesia.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The most important action for the PN to implement is to **assess the vital signs**. Saturation of a peripad within 15 minutes to 1 hour after delivery must be promptly reported. Data such as the amount of bleeding, the condition of the uterus, checking the maternal vital signs, and observing for signs of shock would play a vital role in the care of the patient with hemorrhage¹. Early recognition and treatment of PPH are critical to care management.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The greatest priority for the practical nurse to monitor during the administration of epidural anesthesia is maternal blood pressure (BP). Epidural anesthesia can cause maternal hypotension due to vasodilation and decreased venous return, which can result in decreased fetal perfusion and oxygenation. Therefore, it is important for the practical nurse to monitor maternal BP frequently and promptly report any significant changes to the healthcare provider. Options A, C, and D are also important assessments, but they are not the priority in this scenario.
Therefore, options A, C, and D are not answers because they are not the priority assessment during the administration of epidural anesthesia.
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